Activists Target UCLA Researcher, Bomb Cars at Wrong Address

Photo by Chris Radcliff via Flickr

For the second time in recent years, animal activists have incorrectly targeted UCLA employees involved in animal research.

The Animal Liberation Front is claiming responsibility for destroying two vehicles on November 20. They meant to target "Goran Lacan, a researcher who used animals while investigating treatments for morbid obesity and eating disorders," the Associated Press reports. UCLA says they hit the wrong address. University police, LAPD, fire officials and the FBI are all investigating the incident.

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In 2006, ALF placed a firebomb on the doorstep of an elderly neighbor instead of the targeted UCLA professor nearby, according to a University of California summary report (pdf) of incidents involving anti-animal research extremists.

UCLA has been a consistent target of threats and attacks by animal-activists. In October, ALF claimed they put shotgun shells in commuter vans which prompted campus officials to ask vanpool drivers and riders to check tailpipes and remain vigilant. Earlier this month, an animal activist from a different group was found in contempt of court, violating an injunction. She now faces possible jail time.